A new Auckland-based study is set to investigate vitamin D levels in patients with HLA-B27-associated uveitis

Auckland-based ophthalmologist researchers Drs Rachael Niederer and Priya Samalia have been awarded a prestigious Health Research Council (HRC) grant worth $30,000 to investigate vitamin D levels in patients with HLA-B27-associated uveitis.

HLA-B27-associated uveitis is the most common form of anterior uveitis, accounting for 20% of cases and frequently linked with ankylosing spondylitis. A University of Auckland research team has identified a strong seasonal variation in its incidence, with higher cases reported in winter. This trend is even more pronounced among Māori, Pacific Peoples and Asians, who are at greater risk of vitamin D deficiency, said team leader Dr Niederer.

With the aid of the HRC’s Health Delivery Research Activation Grant, the 17-month project will investigate whether low vitamin D levels contribute to the increased prevalence and severity of HLA-B27-associated uveitis in colder months. Findings from this research will then inform the design of a randomised controlled trial to determine if vitamin D supplementation can reduce disease recurrence and severity, said Dr Niederer who emphasised the importance of this study in addressing health inequities and advancing personalised care. "By examining the role of vitamin D in uveitis, we hope to provide insights that improve patient outcomes and management of this challenging condition.”

Dr Rachael Niederer

The project builds on previous research highlighting the immunomodulating properties of vitamin D and its potential role in inflammatory diseases, said Dr Niederer, adding its findings could pave the way for new preventive strategies and treatments for patients suffering from recurrent uveitis. Early diagnosis and treatment of uveitis are crucial to preventing complications such as glaucoma and permanent vision loss, she said. “I am incredibly grateful to the HRC for their support and to my colleagues and collaborators who have made this work possible.”